Book Review: Breaking Negative Thinking Patterns
“Breaking Negative Thinking Patterns” by Gitta Jacob. A Schema Therapy Self-Help and Support Book – A Comprehensive Review
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)
Date: 27-Feb-2015
Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell
Print length : 200 pages
Introduction
“Breaking Negative Thinking Patterns” by Gitta Jacob is a highly recommended self-help and support book that focuses on understanding childhood trauma and utilizing schema therapy as a practical basis for transformative change.
In this comprehensive review, I will focus into the key concepts covered in the book and explore its effectiveness in helping readers break free from negative thinking patterns but also it has help me in my own journey.
Key context of the book
“Breaking Negative Thinking Patterns” begins by laying a solid foundation with an easy-to-understand overview of key concepts. This initial groundwork is crucial, as it prepares the reader for the deeper exploration that follows.
As the book progresses, the focus shifts towards a detailed examination and description of childhood modes. By providing vivid examples, the author not only brings these concepts to life but also makes them relatable.
Through this structured journey from general concepts to specific childhood modes, the book facilitates a deeper comprehension and relatability for the reader. Key breakdown:
Understanding Childhood Trauma and Emotional Reactions
The book introduces the concept of the “child mode” and emphasizes the importance of comprehending childhood trauma.
By integrating elements from cognitive-behavioral therapy, depth psychology, psychodrama, Gestalt therapy, and humanistic therapy, schema therapy provides a practical approach for understanding and addressing emotions developed during childhood.
Exploring Modes
To facilitate a deeper understanding of emotions linked to childhood trauma, the book categorizes them into five distinct modes:
Vulnerable and Angry Child Modes, Dysfunctional Parents Mode, Coping Modes, Healthy Adult Modes, and Happy Child Modes.
Each mode is explained using a combination of exercises and examples, providing readers with a comprehensive exploration of their emotional states.
Transformative Change and Recognizing Behavioral Patterns:
“Breaking Negative Thinking Patterns” aims to support readers in recognizing the underlying reasons behind their behaviors and thought patterns.
By engaging in the exercises and dedicating time to explore each mode, readers gain valuable insights that lead to behavioral transformation.
The book encourages patience and self-compassion throughout this process, enabling readers to be more understanding of themselves.
My opinion
In my experience, the book “Breaking Negative Thinking Patterns” has been really helpful. It’s one of those books that made a big difference for me. It helped me understand a lot more about myself and proved to be useful during my therapy sessions. I was able to figure out why I act a certain way sometimes, and this understanding gave me more power to handle my thoughts, emotions and even for my meditation to have more compassion with myself.
The book is easy to read, which I liked a lot. It uses simple examples that make sense and help you grasp the ideas easily. I could follow what the author was trying to say without getting lost, which made the reading experience enjoyable.
Overall, I found this book valuable. It made understanding complex things about myself easier, and I felt happier and more informed after reading it. It’s definitely a book I’m glad I picked up, as it offered me better insight into how I think and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Breaking Negative Thinking Patterns” by Gitta Jacob is a valuable tool for individuals seeking to understand their behaviors and break free from negative thinking patterns.
By integrating the concepts of childhood trauma, emotional modes, and schema therapy, the book provides a practical framework for transformative change.
Engaging in the exercises enhances productivity and fosters self-awareness. I highly recommend this book to anyone on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this review should not be considered as a substitute for professional guidance or therapy!
